The PS4 controller connected via a wired link is frequently disconnecting.
The PS4 controller connected via a wired link is frequently disconnecting.
I'm working on restoring my old DualShock 4 controller as a backup. I'm not sure what repairs might be needed. It's a CUH-ZCT1U model. Everything seems to function correctly with the buttons and joystick, but it only stays connected via USB for about 13 seconds. It consistently powers on for roughly that duration, then shuts off for 2 seconds before repeating the cycle. The indicator light turns blue when it activates, but it doesn't appear to be linked to Bluetooth—Steam changes its color briefly. I tried leaving it plugged in for charging, but it won't turn on when powered by battery. When the battery is connected, ds4windows shows a "0%" status, and when disconnected it reads "90%" (the meaning of that isn't clear). The main board and charging board look fine, but I don’t have a microscope. I was planning to purchase a replacement battery from IFixIt, but thought it might help first to see if others have encountered similar problems. If the issue is with the charging port or battery, I can order both at once to save on shipping or money. I prefer Sony controllers over older brands like MS, Nintendo, or Valve. The battery terminal seems to have been damaged—appears the controller powers off after a short time if that happens. The reason for this behavior isn’t clear to me.
You're checking various possibilities for why the battery lasts longer on a PS4 setup. It seems you've tried different cables, ports, and even another controller. Possible causes include the power adapter in your PC, the cable itself, the charging port on the controller, or even software issues on your PC or the controller's firmware. These are the areas you'd want to investigate first.
I don't have a ps4 to test with, but I've used multiple cables and multiple ports. I don't have a second ps4 controller to test the cable with, but the cable works fine with other devices. It's the one I use to interface with my esp32. It can't turn on at all using battery power, holding the PS button does nothing. I've used windows and linux, using ds4windows and steam on windows, and just steam on linux (it doesn't need anything special to use a ds4, it just works). All have the same issue. If it's a controller firmware issue, I don't know how I could detect and fix that. It's never been connected to a ps4 unless they test them at the factory or something. Edited August 13, 2022 by Grant Man forgot to address part of first point
Try connecting it to a basic USB power adapter and observe if the orange indicator lights up, attempting to charge it. It seems like the battery is dead, but the cheap ones are simple to swap out. If it works, the device would press the PS button and flash as if trying to establish a connection.
Uncertain about what you're referring to. It seems there isn't a bench power supply available. The only thing I can charge is the controller, likely due to the plug type. I'm almost certain it's dead. Using an oscilloscope, I checked the voltage and it was zero. I tried inserting a wire into the sockets and connected the leads, but it still read about 1.6 volts. I placed an order for a replacement from ifixit since they didn't have the ports in stock, and shipping savings aren't an option. I'll let you know if it works on its own within three to five business days.
It seems you're looking for a standard phone charger or battery, not a computer setup. The device should attempt to charge without any connection, and the indicator light should change to orange during charging. If it reads 0v, it likely won't charge at all. Using a bench power supply might help preserve the battery, but since you've already ordered a replacement, it shouldn't be necessary. Let me know if you need further clarification.
I acquired the multimeter with its battery, and the connector on the motherboard appears to be damaged. On the front of the PCB I noticed this issue, with a burnt resistor reading 0 ohms and a nearby one around 100. This likely explains why the first battery failed completely. Without the necessary tools, I’m considering taking it to a repair shop instead of replacing the whole board. I wish I could simply use it as a wired controller, but it still keeps disconnecting. All the buttons function properly, though it can’t maintain a connection. Well, the PS5 controller is still working, which would have been helpful as a backup.